UK government makes bold move with AI tutoring trials for 450,000 pupils

The government plans to trial AI tutoring tools in secondary schools, with nationwide availability targeted for the end of 2027. The tools will be developed through a government-led tender, bringing together teachers, AI labs, and technology companies to co-create solutions aligned with classroom needs.

The initiative aims to provide personalised, one-to-one-style learning support, adapting to individual pupils’ needs and helping them catch up where they struggle. A central objective is to reduce educational inequality, with up to 450,000 disadvantaged pupils in years 9–11 potentially benefiting each year, particularly those eligible for free school meals.

AI tutoring tools are intended to complement, not replace, face-to-face teaching. Teachers will play a key role in co-designing, testing, and refining the tools, ensuring they support high-quality teaching, provide targeted help to struggling pupils, and stretch higher-performing students.

Safety and quality are positioned as non-negotiable. The tools will be rigorously tested to ensure they are safe, reliable, and aligned with the National Curriculum, and clear benchmarks will be developed for use in schools. Trials beginning later this year will generate evidence to guide wider rollout, alongside practical training for teachers and school staff to support confident and responsible use of AI.

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